Cherry and other small-fruited tomatoes are a great place to start. Varieties such as Sweet 100 and Tommy Toe are productive, reliable and tasty, with plenty of fruit through the season.

If you are growing in a pot or smaller space, look for compact or dwarf-growing tomatoes. Russian Red is another option for containers, although it will still benefit from support as it grows.

Start with seedlings

For your first season, buying strong, healthy tomato seedlings is generally easier than growing from seed. You can always give seed raising a go next year once you have a season under your belt.

Where to plant

• Choose a warm, sunny spot sheltered from strong winds. 
• Before planting, prepare the soil by digging in plenty of Garden Time™ Compost and/or Garden Time™ Tomato Mix and put your support stakes in place so you don't disturb the roots later.

When to plant tomatoes 

• For most of New Zealand, around Labour Weekend in late October is a good guide for planting tomatoes outside, once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Warmer northern areas can plant earlier, while gardeners in colder parts of the country may need to wait until early to mid-November.
• Water deeply and consistently at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. 
• Once the first small fruits appear, start feeding with Garden Time™ Tomato Fertiliser and reapply as directed on the pack.

Growing tomatoes in a pot? 

Choose a good-sized container and fill it with Garden Time™ Tomato Mix.

Learn more in our guide: 

How to Grow Tomatoes